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Asthma in Torrance, CA

Expert asthma diagnosis and personalized treatment plans to help patients of all ages manage symptoms and improve quality of life in Torrance, CA.

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Rooted in Experience. Driven by Results.

Asthma Diagnosis and Treatment at Modena Allergy & Asthma

At Modena Allergy & Asthma in Torrance, asthma care is personal. Our founder, Dr. Brian Modena, has managed his own asthma since childhood—shaping a lifelong mission to deliver smarter, more effective care to others living with this condition.

We don’t stop at managing symptoms. Our team focuses on identifying the underlying causes of your asthma, uncovering hidden triggers, and using evidence-based diagnostics to guide treatment. From cutting-edge biologics to advanced lung function testing, every care plan is customized to your lifestyle and health goals.

Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed or have lived with asthma for years, we’re here to help you breathe easier—with confidence, clarity, and the expert care you deserve.

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Asthma Care at a Glance

  • Comprehensive Diagnosis: We look at the full picture—ruling out asthma lookalikes like GERD, vocal cord dysfunction, and bronchiectasis to ensure an accurate diagnosis from the beginning.
  • Same-Day Testing, Faster Relief: Most patients receive allergy skin testing, lung function tests, bloodwork, and inflammation assessments during a single visit—streamlining answers and speeding up results.
  • Personalized, Proven Treatments: From lifestyle adjustments to advanced biologic therapies, every care plan is built around your unique symptoms, goals, and response to treatment.
  • Prevention Comes First: We focus on reducing inflammation and protecting your lungs to prevent future flare-ups—not just treating them as they come.
  • Feel Better, Sooner: Many patients experience clearer breathing, more energy, and greater control within days or weeks of starting the right treatment plan.

Breathe Easy with the Right Diagnosis

Is It Really Asthma—Or Something Else?

At Modena Allergy & Asthma, we know that not every breathing issue is asthma. That’s why we take a personalized, whole-body approach to diagnosis. Conditions like vocal cord dysfunction (PVCD), bronchiectasis, COPD, cystic fibrosis, or even dysfunctional breathing patterns can mimic asthma symptoms—sometimes for years—leading to frustration and ineffective treatment.

Your journey starts with a deep dive into your history:

  • Were you born prematurely or hospitalized for breathing issues as a child?
  • Do you experience frequent sinus infections, chronic coughs, or lingering colds?
  • Has anyone in your household smoked?
  • Have asthma medications worked—or failed to make a difference?

We consider it all. By pairing advanced testing with a detailed evaluation of your symptoms, history, and immune profile, we can uncover the real cause behind your symptoms and develop a care plan designed for you—not just your diagnosis.

You deserve answers you can trust—and a treatment path that works. We’re here to deliver both.

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Advanced Testing for Clarity and Control

How is asthma diagnosed?

Asthma symptoms often overlap with other conditions like GERD (acid reflux), vocal cord dysfunction, or bronchiectasis. That’s why our diagnostic process begins with an in-depth conversation about your full health history and symptoms. GERD, for example, is a common but often missed asthma trigger that can be managed through simple lifestyle changes—sometimes without medication.

To better understand what’s really going on, we may recommend the following tests:

  • Lung Function Testing – Measures airflow and lung capacity.
  • Allergy Skin Testing – Identifies allergens that may be triggering symptoms.
  • Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO) – Detects airway inflammation commonly seen in asthma.
  • Blood Work – Evaluates immune activity and inflammation levels.

With this data, we can create a treatment plan that fits your unique biology and offers real, lasting relief.

Thorough Medical History Review

Prior to your initial appointment, our dedicated team conducts a thorough review of your medical history, including records and test results. By completing a medical release form, we streamline the process of securely obtaining these vital documents beforehand. This meticulous preparation allows us to develop a comprehensive care plan tailored to your unique health needs.

Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO)

Lung function tests are crucial for assessing the health of your lungs and detecting any airway obstructions. Spirometry and FeNO testing help evaluate airflow and detect inflammation in the lungs, specifically eosinophilic inflammation. These tests are essential in determining the level of inflammation present and the status of asthma control, aiding in the customization of an effective treatment regimen. Regular monitoring through these tests is vital for managing asthma and ensuring that proper measures are taken to prevent exacerbations.

Allergy Skin Testing

Allergies are a frequently unnoticed cause of asthma flare-ups. Identifying specific allergens through skin testing, such as pet dander, dust mites, or mold, can help determine their impact on your symptoms. Positive results from these tests can indicate a connection between allergies and asthma, especially in children, where it can even predict asthma persistence.

Quick, low-risk, and typically done during the initial appointment, skin tests are essential for accurate diagnosis. To guarantee precise outcomes, patients are advised to discontinue antihistamines for at least six days before testing.

Blood Testing

In certain instances, blood tests are conducted to assess IgE levels, eosinophil counts, and inflammation biomarkers linked to asthma. They can uncover hidden triggers, immune issues, or systemic inflammation impacting symptoms. This data allows for tailored care and aids in deciding on potential advanced treatments such as biologics.

A New Era of Asthma Treatments

Asthma Treatment

Upon completion of diagnostic testing, your provider will interpret the results, explaining their relevance to your symptoms and overall well-being. Engage in discussions about treatment options, ask questions, and collaboratively devise a care plan that aligns with your objectives. Our approach ensures effective treatment tailored to your individual needs. Traditional asthma management has evolved significantly. Formerly reliant on inhaled and oral steroids, these treatments sometimes caused undesired effects and were not universally suitable.

Today, biologics, specifically monoclonal antibody therapies, have revolutionized asthma treatment by targeting the types of inflammation driving the condition for tailored relief. Modena Allergy & Asthma, our focus transcends symptom alleviation. Equipped with advanced tools and expertise in asthma immunology, we personalize care with cutting-edge therapies using genetic sequencing, biomarker analysis, and machine learning algorithms.

Live Better

Results of Asthma Treatment

Our personalized care plans can help you regain control and improve your quality of life. With the right treatment, improvement is often noticeable within days or weeks as inflammation decreases and lung function improves. Many patients experience fewer attacks, increased energy, and the ability to enjoy activities they once avoided. Effective asthma management not only reduces symptoms but also safeguards your lungs from long-term damage. Trust our team to provide the support you need to breathe easier and reclaim your confidence. Focus on living the life you deserve with our help.

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Asthma Innovation Powered by You

Now Enrolling: Clinical Trial for Severe Asthma

Introducing Modena Allergy & Asthma's NIMBLE clinical research study for volunteers aged 12+ with severe eosinophilic asthma benefiting from Nucala® or Fasenra®. Join to explore a new treatment's efficacy compared to existing biologics. By participating, access advanced care and influence future asthma treatments. Connect with Modena Allergy & Asthma to learn more and check eligibility. Take a step towards improved asthma management with us.

It's Time to Breathe

Schedule Your Consultation at Modena Allergy & Asthma

Discover cutting-edge asthma care at Modena Allergy & Asthma, honing in on inflammation as the root cause. Our personalized treatments go above and beyond typical inhalers, incorporating biologics and precise diagnostics for enhanced respiratory function and sustained lung health. Seek our expertise for tailored care strategies aimed at reducing lasting harm.

Elevate your quality of life and feel empowered in asthma management. Book a consultation now to access specialized care catering to your individual requirements for improved breathing and holistic wellness.

Asthma

Frequently Asked Questions

Recognizing the early symptoms of an asthma attack, such as shortness of breath, chest tightness, wheezing, coughing, and reduced peak flow readings, is crucial in preventing severe flare-ups. Acting swiftly with prescribed medications upon noticing these signs can help manage and control asthma effectively. Early intervention plays a key role in maintaining respiratory health and preventing exacerbations.
Absolutely, not all signs of asthma manifest as wheezing. Some individuals may predominantly exhibit coughing, chest tightness, or breathlessness. It's crucial to note that silent asthma poses risks and necessitates accurate diagnosis and management.
Eosinophilic asthma is a type of severe asthma with high eosinophil levels causing airway inflammation. Standard inhalers may not be effective, but newer biologic therapies can reduce flare-ups and enhance breathing.
Diagnosing respiratory issues in adults often involves lung function tests and symptom review. However, for children under 5, diagnosis may lean on symptom patterns, family history, and medication response due to challenges with accurate lung testing. Accurate and thorough evaluation is crucial for effective treatment.

Asthma is often triggered by allergies such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander, causing inflammation and symptoms. Allergy testing plays a vital role in diagnosing and managing these triggers for effective asthma management.

While some children may "outgrow" asthma, many continue to experience symptoms into adulthood. Even in remission, underlying airway inflammation may persist, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and treatment. Regular check-ups and adherence to prescribed medications can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life for asthma sufferers.